Nwagua Reveals Motivation for Rivers United Treble-hunting Season

Rivers United are enjoying a very good season, and star striker Nyima Nwagua has revealed the reason behind the success.

The striker believes Rivers United hit their best run of form of the season because the players are embracing the tightrope of knowing a defeat will dent their hopes in one of the three titles they’re competing for.

The Nigerian Champions are through to the last eight of the CAF Confederation Cup, where they will face Tanzanian side, Young Africans for a place in the semi-final.

Asked why his thinks Rivers United are doing so well in the CAF Confederation Cup, Nyima Nwagua explained that, “Playing continental matches during regular NPFL season has really helped Rivers United, Unlike before when Plateau United and others have to play when the season was on break.

“No team can assess its preparations without playing competitive matches. Sometimes these matches against amateur sides aren’t good for preparations, because we can see the lapses when we play against teams from other countries.

“For me our calendar should be aligned with other parts of Africa. We’ll go into the continental matches with good fitness and momentum.

“With that we can also play every four days, although some do complain about the congestion of fixtures, but I don’t think that’s a problem.”

The team is also in good position to retain the domestic league title they won last season.

They stay second in Group B with just a point behind leaders Lobi Stars, with a game in hand.

Nyima, said the club is not ready to relinquish the crown they won last season.

“It’s not easy defending the league title, because every team wants to beat Rivers United and we have to work hard and respect our opponents.

“But I can say that, retaining the league is one of our targets. We want to win back to back title for our fans.”

The Pride of Rivers will host Young Africans S.C. on the weekend of April 23, but also have NPFL matches against Niger Tornadoes and Dakkada.